A historic horse farm can be converted into flats despite major opposition to the plans, councillors have ruled.

Proposals to convert two equestrian buildings at Cliveden Stud House in Taplow into seven apartments were approved by five votes to one with one abstention during Tuesday’s South Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee.

The controversial decision comes after applicants Mr and Mrs Krishnamohan received 13 letters of objection to their plans for the Cliveden Road site.

Some objections focused on planning conditions attached to the farm which stipulate that only people involved in equine or agricultural work can live on the site.

Cllr Chhokar said: “It is clear that the present owners have no intention to operate or develop any equine or agricultural activities, but this does not relieve them of the obligation. They would have been well aware of this when purchasing the site.”

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The former South Bucks District Council previously investigated the farm to determine if planning rules had been breached.

Some letters of objection to the plans, available to view on the Council’s planning portal, contain allegations of criminal activity on the site, including illegal dumping of waste on the land.

Letters also reference the impact on the Green Belt, the isolation of the proposed development, the lack of nearby amenities and lack of public transport.

The owners of Cliveden Stud House could not be contacted.

Founded in 1908 by Waldorf Astor, the stud farm, is steeped in British racing history, having been home to championship racers and trainers.